The former Buccaneers road grader was released in March after starting 99 games for Tampa Bay over eight seasons. Joseph was a quality guard for the Bucs after being drafted in the first round of the 2006 draft, earning two Pro Bowl nods (2008 and '11).

However, his play fell off a cliff last season following a lost 2012 to knee surgery. Pro Football Focus ranked him No. 80 out of 81 qualifying guards in 2013.

Joseph, 30, would instantly become the most experienced backup on the Pats' offensive line (the current reserves have a combined eight starts among them). He also would provide much-needed competition for struggling veterans Ryan Wendell and Dan Connolly.